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Plasmodesmata: gateways for information transfer
E Waigmann1, Y Cohen, G McLean
1Department of Plant Biology, University of California, Berkeley 94720, USA.
Symposia of the Society for Experimental Biology
|January 25, 2000
Summary
Plant cells use plasmodesmata for communication. These channels dynamically adjust size, allowing transport of large molecules like plant proteins and viral genomes, revealing their active role in intercellular transport.
Area of Science:
- Plant biology
- Cellular biology
- Molecular biology
Background:
- Plasmodesmata are cytoplasmic bridges connecting plant cells through cell walls.
- Historically viewed as passive channels for small molecules (<1 kDa).
- Plant viruses utilize plasmodesmata for intercellular movement.
Purpose of the Study:
- To summarize current knowledge on plasmodesmata structure and function.
- To explore the dynamic nature of plasmodesmata in molecule transport.
- To review intracellular transport pathways and the role of the cytoskeleton in targeting plasmodesmata.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on plasmodesmata.
- Analysis of intercellular and intracellular transport mechanisms.
- Investigation of molecular interactions at plasmodesmata.
Main Results:
- Plasmodesmata are dynamic organelles, not just passive conduits.
- Their dimensions actively change to accommodate larger molecules, including plant proteins and viral genomes.
- The cytoskeleton plays a role in directing molecules to plasmodesmata.
Conclusions:
- Plasmodesmata function as dynamic, regulated channels for intercellular communication.
- They act as critical checkpoints for information transfer between plant cells.
- Understanding plasmodesmata is key to understanding plant development and viral infection.